An Atlanta personal injury lawyer helps clients recover compensation after injuries from accidents due to negligence. Services often include case evaluation, gathering evidence, negotiating settlements, and representing clients in court. This support ensures victims receive fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Following your accident, you may not be able to go to work or pay your bills, and there may be no end to your financial woes. If another party caused or contributed to your accident, they may owe you compensation. An Atlanta personal injury lawyer with Bader Scott Injury Lawyers can help you recover your deserved award. Call today for a free consultation.
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With a proven track record of successful case outcomes, we have helped countless Atlanta residents recover financial compensation for injuries sustained in car accidents, workplace incidents, medical malpractice, and more. Our personalized approach ensures that every client receives tailored attention, maximizing the chances of a favorable outcome. From negotiating with insurance companies to representing you in court, we are committed to helping you secure justice and a stable future.
For a free legal consultation with a Personal Injury lawyer serving Atlanta, call (404) 888-8888
What Kind of Cases Do Our Atlanta Personal Injury Lawyers Handle?
What is considered an Atlanta personal injury lawsuit? Without going into the specifics, a personal injury lawsuit is a legal case following an injury and its related expenses. In personal injury law, the injuries for which you can sue include bodily damages, pain and suffering, mental anguish, or disfigurement/disabilities.
Our Atlanta personal injury lawyers handle cases in which one party’s negligence has caused another person to be injured or killed.
Our Atlanta law firm includes:
- Atlanta Bicycle Accident Lawyers: Drivers often fail to see cyclists due to blind spots, distractions, or not expecting to encounter bicycles on certain roads. Victims often deal with exorbitant medical bills, therapy costs, and lost income. Working with an experienced lawyer is essential to handle complex insurance negotiations. A lawyer can gather evidence, negotiate, and fight for fair compensation.
- Atlanta Car Accident Lawyers: Many car accidents happen because of distracted driving or speeding. A car accident lawyer can help victims understand their rights, get compensation, and handle legal issues so they can focus on healing.
- Atlanta Construction Accident Lawyers: Construction sites are dangerous, with risks like falls, electrical problems, and equipment issues. These accidents can cause serious injuries or death, leading to financial and emotional struggles. Workers’ compensation may help, but it often isn’t enough. A lawyer can look for other claims and help injured workers get fair compensation for medical costs, lost wages, and pain.
- Atlanta Medical Malpractice Lawyers: Medical malpractice can include wrong diagnoses, surgical mistakes, or giving the wrong treatment. Victims often suffer significantly and face complex legal challenges. Proving medical malpractice requires evidence. A skilled lawyer can gather evidence, work with medical experts, and help victims get compensation for medical costs, lost income, and pain.
- Atlanta Motorcycle Accident Lawyers: These accidents often cause severe injuries because motorcycle riders have little protection. Many accidents happen when other drivers don’t see motorcycles. Victims may face expensive medical bills, lost wages, and long recovery times. A good lawyer can help fight against biases against motorcyclists, investigate the crash, and ensure victims get fair compensation for their injuries.
- Atlanta Slip and Fall Accident Lawyers: These accidents are common in grocery stores, sidewalks, and restaurants. Property owners must keep their places safe for visitors. If someone is hurt, they must prove the owner knew about the hazard but did nothing. A lawyer can help gather evidence and deal with insurance companies to get fair compensation for the victim.
- Atlanta Truck Accident Lawyers: Truck accident cases can be complicated because several parties, like the driver, trucking company, or equipment makers, are usually involved. Each party may try to shift the blame, making it difficult to determine who is responsible. A lawyer can help gather evidence, determine who is responsible, and fight for fair compensation.
- Atlanta Workers’ Compensation Lawyers: Workers’ compensation helps injured employees by covering medical bills and part of their lost wages. The claims process can be difficult, and insurance companies may try to deny claims. A lawyer can help injured workers file claims, appeal denials, and make sure they get the benefits they deserve so they can focus on getting better.
- Atlanta Wrongful Death Lawyers: A wrongful death lawyer can help your family get compensation for funeral costs, lost income, and emotional suffering, guiding them through the legal process to seek justice. Additionally, wrongful death claims can help prevent similar incidents by holding negligent parties accountable.
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What Damages Can Your Atlanta Personal Injury Lawyer Help You Recover?
Different damages can be awarded in an Atlanta personal injury lawsuit, as defined by the O.C.G.A. § 51-12-30. These compensatory damages include your financial losses and personal losses.
Your Atlanta personal injury lawyer will assess your damages to determine a fair settlement amount. This can include:
Economic Damages Represent Direct Financial Losses
Economic damages include such losses as medical bills, property damage, and lost wages. Your attorney will use documentation like receipts, medical bills and records, repair estimates, and expert testimony to determine how much you have spent and will continue to spend due to the accident. You can also recover your unearned wages and the loss of your future earning potential if severe injuries prevent you from working or excelling in your field.
Non-Economic Damages Reflect the Impact on Your Quality of Life
Non-economic damages include physical pain, emotional suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, and mental distress. These damages are just as important as your financial losses. We will talk with you, members of your family, and your physician to get an idea of how your life has changed because of your accident. Then, we will do what we can to request an appropriate amount to mitigate your suffering.
Punitive Damages May Be Awarded
Though rare, the circumstances in your case may lead to punitive damages. Punitive damages are awarded by a judge ruling or jury verdict when the defendant’s actions are found to be heinous and egregious. They are a warning to others that such behavior is not acceptable, and the courts will punish those who behave that way in the future.
Wrongful Death Damages for the Families Who Lost a Loved One
If you have lost someone due to the careless or reckless actions of another, please accept our condolences. We understand the turmoil your family is facing and wish to help. Though money can never replace your loved one, it could help you to rebuild from this tragic loss. Wrongful death damages could cover funeral expenses and burial costs, prior medical expenses, and the loss of support and guidance your loved one provided.
We want your settlement or verdict to improve your quality of life and prepare you for future treatment. Therefore, we will do everything possible to recover the maximum compensation possible for injury victims through negotiations or trial.
Can You Afford an Atlanta Personal Injury Attorney?
Is it worth getting a personal injury attorney? If this question keeps you awake because you don’t know whether you can afford legal representation, let us clarify some things. Most personal injury attorneys in Atlanta work on a contingency fee basis. So do we. If we take your case, we will not require payment unless we can get compensation for you. When we win, our attorney’s fee will be a preapproved percentage of your compensation.
Should You Talk to the Defendant’s Insurer Without an Atlanta Personal Injury Attorney?
Another common mistake that victims of accidental injuries make is assuming that the negligent party’s insurance company is on their side. It is understandable because you are facing many hardships at the time, and the insurance company claims adjuster will seem helpful. You may be tempted to think they are working for you to ensure you get fair compensation, but beware. They are not.
Before signing an insurance release, remember that the insurance company has one goal: to get an injured person to settle for the least amount of money. Your Atlanta personal injury attorney will be your advocate during this process, not the insurance adjuster.
Call Bader Scott today for a free case evaluation.
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What Factors Affect the Value of Your Atlanta Personal Injury Case?
If you’ve been injured and you’re wondering what your personal injury case may be worth, it is important to recognize that many factors will influence your settlement. Your case could be worth more if any of these conditions exist:
- Catastrophic injuries (e.g., traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries)
- Chronic pain
- The need for future medical care
- The inability to continue in your career
- The inability to enjoy your life the way you once did
- Scarring, disability, and permanent disfigurement
This is why it’s so important to communicate with an experienced Atlanta personal injury lawyer about the true value of your case. The insurers most likely will not consider these conditions if they are allowed to determine the value of your case. However, we will include these conditions in our assessment of your damages.
How Long Do You Have to File a Personal Injury Lawsuit in Atlanta?
One of the first things you need to know about filing a personal injury lawsuit in Atlanta is the fact that there is a time limit. This is known as the “statute of limitations,” and once it’s passed, the courts won’t hear your case.
You typically have two years from the date of your injury to file your lawsuit with either the Fulton County or DeKalb County courthouse, according to the O.C.G.A. § 9-3-33, the statute of limitations in personal injury cases that involve negligence.
However, this deadline may differ depending on the type of accident and certain extenuating circumstances. For instance, the premises liability statute of limitations in Georgia varies depending on who or what you want to sue. You have two years to file a lawsuit against the responsible party for the injuries you suffered on their property, but you must file a case against a municipality in no more than six months.
Avoid missing the statute of limitations. Call us today to get the legal process started.
Can You Settle an Atlanta Personal Injury Case Out of Court?
Yes, most personal injury cases are settled without ever going to court. Going to court is expensive and time-consuming for both sides of the case, so everyone is typically motivated to reach an agreement beforehand.
Aside from saving money in court costs, the insurance adjuster knows that the judge may award a higher amount than what you were seeking to settle for. Therefore, it is in everyone’s best interests to avoid taking the case to court.
However, our legal team is not afraid to take your case to court if need be. We have the experience you want when standing toe-to-toe with insurers.
Will It Take a Long Time to Settle Your Atlanta Injury Lawsuit?
You may also have concerns about how long it takes to settle a personal injury lawsuit in Atlanta. The answer is that every personal injury case is different. It will take as long as it takes until each party reaches a satisfactory settlement. Some factors that could also impact the time frame of your case include an independent investigation and locating witnesses.
Ultimately, our goal is to settle your case as quickly as possible while ensuring you get the best compensation you deserve.
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What Do You Need to Prove for a Successful Atlanta Personal Injury Case?
The more details, information, and documentation that you have to prove your case, the more likely it is to be successful. There are four basic elements of a personal injury lawsuit that must be put in order for it to be successful. These include:
- Duty of care
- Breach of duty
- Causation
- Damages
You must be able to establish that the defendant owes a duty of care to you and that they breached that duty by behaving negligently. You must also prove that the other party’s negligence was the cause of your injuries and the resulting damages.
Proof of Negligence
The other party must be proven negligent for you to have a successful case. You and your attorney will gather evidence to prove that the other party caused the accident. Some useful evidence to prove negligence includes:
- The police report or incident reports
- Witness statements
- Accident reconstruction expert testimony
- Medical expert testimony
You could begin collecting evidence from the accident scene right after it occurs. If your injuries permit, you can take photos and videos of the site and your physical injuries, keep a journal of what you remember and your medical progress, and ask for contact information from those involved and witnesses to the accident.
Proof of Injuries and Damages
You must have sustained injuries in order to bring a lawsuit. If the other party was negligent and caused the accident, but you didn’t sustain any injuries and didn’t receive medical attention, you have no actual damages as a result. Therefore, you will not have a case. Medical bills, medical records, W2s, pay stubs, invoices, and receipts can help prove your damages.
Documentation and Evidence
Strong documentation and evidence are essential to a successful personal injury case. You can never have too much evidence, only too little. If you don’t have enough evidence to prove your case, you won’t be able to succeed.
Keep in mind that the other party’s insurance company may try to dispute your evidence. An experienced Atlanta personal injury attorney understands the evidence needed and will work to ensure that they gather everything necessary for a successful case.
Who Is Liable in a Personal Injury Case in Atlanta?
When it comes to identifying all potential defendants who may be liable for a personal injury, there are many factors that need to be investigated. If anyone involved fails to exhibit due care, then they can be held responsible for the injuries that occurred.
It’s important to note that the person who directly caused the accident may not be the only liable party. There may be multiple liable parties. For example, in a drunk driving auto accident, the driver may be held responsible, but the person who served a clearly intoxicated person more alcohol could also be responsible.
How Does Georgia’s Modified Comparative Negligence Law Work?
Understanding the negligence laws in our state is also an important part of pursuing a personal injury case. Georgia follows a legal doctrine called “modified comparative negligence.” This doctrine allows you to collect on a personal injury case even if the accident was partly your fault. Injured parties can recover compensation as long as they are less than 50% responsible for the accident.
It’s important to note that your financial recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault in the crash. For example, if you are 30% responsible for the accident, and the case is awarded $100,000 in damages, you recover $70,000.
The sooner you contact a personal injury attorney in Atlanta after an accident, the easier it will be to collect evidence.
What Happens During the Atlanta Personal Injury Lawsuit Process?
It’s perfectly normal to worry about what is going to happen during the claims process, but you’re in good hands with the Atlanta personal injury lawyers at Bader Scott. This description of the stages of a case will let you know the basics of what you can expect next.
Your Personal Injury Case Starts With a Consultation
The consultation offers you the opportunity to narrate your account of the incident and ask questions about the case. It also gives our accident lawyers the time to assess the viability of the case and advise you accordingly. They will only enter into a fee agreement after determining that the case is viable.
Your Legal Team Will Investigate the Accident
The investigation of your case will involve your lawyer interviewing you and witnesses, as well as reviewing your background and medical records. The information and records your attorney finds will help them determine the course of your case.
The Will Handle Filing Court Documents
Your personal injury attorney will need to file a personal injury complaint, and this is usually the first document of the case. In this case, they must ensure they serve the defendant the complaint and other related documents. The complaint will detail the nature of the incident and the injuries you sustained.
Next Is the Discovery Process
The discovery process involves exchanging evidence. Your accident attorney sends a list of interrogatories (questions) to the defendant. They may also request documents. Both parties may take sworn statements or depositions of all the witnesses in the case. Your Atlanta personal injury attorney may also consult with medical experts and accident reconstruction experts.
Making Requests and Negotiations
Your Atlanta personal injury lawyer will make demands after you have achieved the maximum medical improvement (MMI). Demanding compensation before fully recovering could mean you won’t have enough money to pay for future treatments. Once your full damages are known, your attorney will negotiate with the at-fault party’s insurers.
Proceed to Trial if Necessary
If the parties fail to reach an out-of-court agreement or settlement, the case advances to trial. During the trial, the jury determines whether the defendant is liable. If they decide in the plaintiff’s favor, the defendant will be expected to compensate the plaintiff for the identified damages.
The Atlanta Personal Injury Claim Process Explained
Before going to trial, there is the claims process. Understanding each step can empower you to make informed decisions and increase the likelihood of a favorable outcome. Here’s a comprehensive overview of what to expect when filing a personal injury claim in Atlanta:
- Initial Consultation and Case Evaluation:The first step is to consult with a qualified personal injury attorney. During this meeting, you’ll discuss the details of your case, including the circumstances of the accident, the extent of your injuries, and any evidence you have collected. This evaluation helps determine the viability of your claim and the potential compensation you may receive.
- Investigation and Gathering Evidence:Once you proceed, your attorney will conduct a thorough investigation. This involves gathering police reports, medical records, witness statements, and any available video or photographic evidence. This step is crucial in building a strong case demonstrating the other party’s liability.
- Calculating Damages:Your attorney will help calculate both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages cover tangible losses like medical bills, rehabilitation costs, and lost wages. Non-economic damages address intangible losses such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
- Filing the Claim:With evidence and calculated damages, your attorney will file a claim against the at-fault party’s insurance company. This claim outlines the facts of the case, the extent of your injuries, and the compensation you seek.
- Negotiation With the Insurance Companies:Insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts. Your attorney will handle all communications, advocating to negotiate a fair settlement. This involves presenting evidence, countering lowball offers, and protecting your rights.
- Settlement or Litigation:If a fair settlement is reached, the case concludes, and you receive compensation. If not, your attorney may advise taking the case to court. Litigation involves filing a lawsuit, reviewing the discovery process, and presenting your case before a judge or jury.
- Trial Process:Both sides present evidence and call witnesses during the trial. Your attorney will make a compelling case for why you deserve compensation. The judge or jury then deliberates and renders a verdict, which could result in a higher or lower amount than previously offered.
- Receiving Compensation:If the verdict is in your favor, the final step is collecting the awarded compensation. Your attorney will ensure that all legal and procedural steps are followed to secure your settlement promptly.
Understanding this process highlights the importance of experienced legal representation. A skilled attorney can explore your legal options, handle negotiations, and advocate for your best interests every step of the way.
How We Maximize Your Atlanta Personal Injury Settlement
Securing the maximum settlement possible is essential to fully recovering without financial strain. Our record of success reflects our ability to handle every aspect of your case with precision and care.
Building a Strong Case from the Start
We begin by thoroughly assessing your situation to create a solid foundation for your claim. This includes:
- Evaluating the extent of your injuries and their impact on your life.
- Identifying all liable parties involved in the incident.
- Gathering critical evidence, such as medical records, accident reports, witness statements, and expert opinions, to strengthen your case.
Maximizing the Value of Your Claim
To ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve, we focus on accounting for every loss. Our team ensures:
- Inclusion of future medical costs, lost earning capacity, and non-economic damages like pain and suffering.
- Collaboration with medical professionals and financial experts to substantiate the severity of your injuries and project long-term impacts.
Standing Strong Against Insurance Companies
With a deep understanding of insurance company tactics, we are ready to advocate on your behalf. To protect your interests, we:
- Anticipate and counter their strategies effectively.
- Prepare every case as if it will go to trial, showing we are serious about securing maximum compensation.
Keeping You Informed Every Step of the Way
Transparent communication is vital to maintaining our record of success. Throughout your case, we:
- Keep you updated on developments and explain your options clearly.
- Involve you in decision-making to ensure the outcome aligns with your best interests.
- Align our goals with yours through our contingency fee structure—you only pay when we win.
Providing Support Even After the Settlement
Our commitment doesn’t end once the settlement is reached. We:
- Help resolve liens and ensure you receive your funds promptly.
- Offer guidance to help you move forward without lingering legal or financial concerns.
Your Trusted Legal Partner in Atlanta
By choosing our firm, you leverage a dedicated legal team with a history of achieving results. We work tirelessly to maximize your settlement, allowing you to focus on healing while we handle the unique challenges of your claim.
Call Today to Get Help From Our Atlanta Personal Injury Attorneys
Bader Scott focuses on Atlanta personal injury cases. That means that our legal team knows the laws intimately and can take on any case regardless of how complicated it is. Our results speak for themselves. We know how to get the compensation you need to move on with your life. Let our personal injury law firm help you get a fresh start after this difficult time.
Learn more about how our accident lawyers can help during a free consultation.
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